Device for treating vapors

ABSTRACT

A device for treating vapors includes a fluid-tight container that has a vapor inlet, a vapor outlet and a through-flow connection which connects the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet in particular along a direction of flow, wherein the container can be at least partially filled with a cooling fluid.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority of German Patent Applications, Serial No. DE 10 2020 212 820.0, DE 10 2020 212 821.9, DE 10 2020 212 822.7, DE 10 2020 212 823.5, DE 10 2020 212 824.3, DE 10 2020 212 825.1 and DE 10 2020 212 827.8, filed Oct. 9, 2020, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a device for treating vapors. The invention further relates to an apparatus for cleaning vapors. The invention also relates to a cooking appliance. Furthermore, the invention relates to an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes and to a hob system comprising a corresponding apparatus. Finally, the invention relates to a method for treating vapors, a method for operating a cooking appliance and a method for operating an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes.

The invention comprises a large number of independent aspects and sub-aspects, which can each lead to advantages on their own and/or in combination with other aspects/sub-aspects. Due to the large number of different permutation possibilities, it shall be refrained from presenting each possible feature combination separately. This is not meant to be restrictive. Even if different (sub-)aspects are described in connection with each other, in particular with reference to a common embodiment example, it should also be possible to use them independently of one another to specify claims.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

From DE 10 2019 205 337.8, an apparatus for heating cooking products is known. The contents of DE 10 2019 205 337.8 and PCT/EP2020/060413 (Ref: P200242WO) are incorporated by reference in the present application.

EP 2 254 422 B1 and DE 10 2008 012 961 A1 relate to a cooking appliance including a vapor condensing device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is a need to improve such a vapor condensing device, especially a corresponding cooking appliance.

This object is achieved by the subject-matters of the present invention.

The invention comprises a multitude of different aspects, each of which individually or in combination with each other contributes to the solution of this object and is a subject-matter of the invention.

Where components of the subject-matters of the invention are referred to hereinafter in the singular or plural, this is not to be understood in a restrictive manner, unless explicitly described otherwise. In particular, advantageous embodiments which are described with reference to a single component may also be provided for a plurality of corresponding components, and vice versa.

According to one aspect of the invention, a device for treating vapors comprises a container which can be filled with cooling fluid at least in certain regions and has a vapor inlet, a vapor outlet and a through-flow connection which connects the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises at least one means for mixing the cooling fluid in the container.

The means is used in particular for active mixing of the cooling fluid in the container. In particular, it serves to mix the cooling fluid in the container, which is independent of the extracted vapor flow. The means for mixing the cooling fluid can be arranged at least partially, in particular completely, in the container. In particular, it can be a structural component.

The vapors are in particular cooking vapors. These are also referred to as cooking fumes or baking fumes. They can contain in particular water vapor, aerosols and fats.

The vapors can originate in particular from a receiving space of a cooking appliance, in particular be extracted from a corresponding receiving space. They can also be produced during the operation of a hob. They are generally produced during cooking and/or baking.

The device is in particular a device for a cooking appliance and/or a device for an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes.

The device for treating the vapors serves in particular to reduce the temperature and humidity of vapors, in particular of exhausted vapors, and/or to clean them.

In addition to undesirable humidity and/or contamination problems, vapors can also lead to odor pollution. These problems can be solved, or at least reduced, with the aid of the present invention.

Treatment refers in particular to a cooling of a vapor flow and/or a reduction of the relative air humidity in the vapor flow. The treatment may also include particle and/or grease separation. A corresponding treatment is sometimes also referred to as preconditioning of the vapors. In particular, it can serve to prepare the vapor flow for further treatment steps, especially for filtration in a subsequent filter device. By means of a corresponding treatment or preconditioning of the vapors, it can be achieved in particular that these have a temperature and/or humidity, in particular relative humidity, which fall within a range in which a subsequent filter device, in particular with an activated carbon filter and/or another filter, for example an electrostatic precipitator and/or a plasma filter, works particularly well.

By means of a corresponding treatment, the filter effect of a downstream filter, in particular an odor filter, especially an activated carbon filter, can be improved. In addition, the service life of a corresponding filter can be extended.

The container can comprise a tray. In particular, the tray can be closed with a lid. Apart from defined inlets and outlets, the tray can be closed in an airtight and/or vapor-tight manner.

In particular, the tray forms a bottom tray of the container. The bottom tray of the container is also called the lower shell. The lid of the container is also called the top shell.

The means for mixing the cooling fluid in the container can in particular serve to swirl the cooling fluid, to circulate the cooling fluid in the container or to pump the cooling fluid over in the container.

The means for mixing the cooling fluid in the container can in particular also serve to flush the container with a cleaning liquid.

A pump, in particular a circulation pump, can serve as the means for mixing the cooling fluid. The pump can fulfil several functions. It can switch between pumping out and circulating, in particular via a change in the direction of rotation of the pump impeller or an internal flap.

The cooling fluid, in particular in the form of cooling water, can be flushed by means of the circulation pump in a circuit over the bottom surface of the container and/or over a heat exchanger plate that is to be described below.

Preferably, the edges of the container are designed to be rounded, especially in such a manner that no dead zones are formed in the container. In particular, the bottom tray of the container can be designed without dead zones.

Cooling water, in particular fresh water, serves as the cooling fluid. The cooling water can in particular have a temperature in the range of room temperature. In particular, it can have a temperature in the range of 5° C. to 35° C. It preferably has a temperature of at most 20° C.

The device may also have a means for removing the cooling fluid from the container. For this purpose, the container can in particular have a cooling fluid outlet. The latter is preferably arranged in a region at the lowest point of the container. The cooling fluid outlet can be opened and closed. In particular, it can be opened and closed in a controlled manner.

The device can in particular have a second pump for pumping liquid out of the container. The second pump can in particular pump the liquid out through the outlet at the lowest point of the container.

The pumps, in particular the circulation pump and/or the waste water pump, can be connected to the lid or to the bottom tray of the container. In particular, they can be fastened to the lid of the container. They can be spaced apart from the bottom tray of the container or be mounted on the bottom of the tray.

Preferably, the pumps each have an inlet which is arranged as close as possible to the bottom of the container. The distance between the pump inlet and the bottom of the container is preferably at most 1 cm, in particular at most 5 mm, in particular at most 2 mm, in particular at most 1 mm.

The device may have a designated inlet for a cooling fluid. This may be arranged to be spaced apart from the vapor inlet. The inlet for the cooling fluid is preferably arranged closer to the vapor outlet than to the vapor inlet. This allows the cooling effect of the cooling fluid to be improved, in particular better utilized. The inlet for cooling fluid can also be close to the vapor inlet, in particular at a distance of at most 10 cm, in particular at most 5 cm.

By positioning the inlet for a cooling fluid into the container, a flow path of the cooling fluid through the container can be specified.

The inlet for the cooling fluid can in particular be arranged at a distance from the cooling fluid outlet.

The inlet for the cooling fluid can in particular be arranged in such a manner that the cooling fluid causes a current, in particular a mixing of the cooling fluid in the container, in particular in the bottom tray, when flowing through the container.

The inlet for the cooling fluid can in particular be arranged in such a manner that the cooling fluid first flows over a cooling plate that is arranged in the container and from there reaches the bottom tray via one or more defined outlets. In particular, it enters the bottom tray in a region which is spaced apart from the cooling fluid outlet. In particular, it can enter the bottom tray in a region which is as far away as possible from the cooling fluid outlet. For example, it can enter the bottom tray in a diagonally opposite region to the cooling fluid outlet. From there, it flows through the bottom tray to the cooling fluid outlet.

By a suitable arrangement of the cooling fluid inlet and/or the discharge openings in the cooling plate, it can be achieved that the cooling fluid in the container can be completely exchanged only by adding fresh cooling fluid and pumping off cooling fluid. In this case, the means for mixing the cooling fluid can be dispensed with.

According to one aspect of the invention, the means for mixing the cooling fluid is configured to generate a counter-current to the vapor flow in the cooling fluid in the region between the vapor inlet and the vapor outlet. In particular, it is possible to use a circulating pump to generate a current in the cooling fluid which, in a region adjacent to the vapor outlet of the container, has a component which is opposite to a component of the vapor flow in a region upstream from and adjacent to the vapor outlet, in particular the direction from the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet. Opposite components or partially opposite directions are present here if their scalar product is negative. The direction of a velocity vector, in particular a temporally and/or spatially averaged velocity, is regarded as the direction of flow.

With the help of the means for mixing the cooling fluid, it can be ensured that the cooling fluid in the container does not only absorb heat energy at the surface through contact with the vapor flow. In particular, it can be achieved that the cooling fluid in the container has a substantially homogeneous temperature. In particular, the temperature of the cooling fluid can be substantially the same in the entire container. It is also possible to form a plurality of different regions in the container within which the temperature of the cooling fluid is substantially the same, wherein the temperature of the cooling fluid is different in different regions. This is described in more detail below.

The arrangement of the vapor inlet in the container, in particular in its lid, can be central, in particular central to a center plane of the container. According to one embodiment, the vapor inlet can be arranged opposite the vapor outlet with respect to a central region of the container. In particular, the vapor inlet and the vapor outlet may be arranged in edge regions of the container that are opposite to each other with respect to a central region. In particular, they can be arranged in such a manner that their distance is maximized. This enables a particularly large flow path for the vapors in the container. In the case of flow guiding members which influence the vapor flow in the container, the distance is measured here, in particular along the intended flow path of the vapors. For example, it is possible to arrange the vapor inlet adjacent to the vapor outlet, but to influence the flow path in the container by flow-guiding members in such a manner that the vapors flow from the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet through the container essentially completely, for example along its circumference.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device for treating vapors comprises at least one sensor for detecting at least one parameter of a vapor flow and/or a coolant in the container.

By means of such a sensor, the effectiveness of the treatment can be detected, in particular controlled, in particular regulated. The sensor can in particular be in signal connection with a control device for controlling the mixing, in particular the circulation, of the coolant in the container and/or the addition of coolant, in particular fresh water, to the container and/or the discharge of coolant and/or waste water from the container and/or the extraction of the vapors by means of an extractor fan apparatus, which in particular can also be designed as a separate component that is disconnected from the treatment device.

Instead of a single sensor, a plurality of sensors can also be provided.

The at least one sensor can be designed as a mechanical sensor and/or electrical sensor and/or chemical sensor and/or optical sensor. In particular, it can be a temperature sensor and/or a humidity sensor and/or a conductivity sensor and/or a volume flow sensor.

The at least one sensor is preferably arranged on the downstream side of the vapor outlet. In particular, it can be arranged in a riser pipe that adjoins the vapor outlet.

The at least one sensor can also be arranged upstream of the vapor outlet, in particular in the container, or upstream of the vapor inlet, in particular in the region of a connecting piece between the receiving space and the vapor inlet or in the receiving space of the cooking appliance.

The parameter of the vapor flow can be in particular its temperature, its relative humidity, its degree of contamination or its volume flow.

The parameter of the coolant in the container can be in particular its temperature, its filling level or its degree of contamination.

The coolant can be the cooling fluid in the container or another coolant, in particular a cooling member, in particular in the form of a solid body, for example a cooling plate that is described in more detail below.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device is configured such that vapors can undergo a multi-stage cooling as they pass through the through-flow connection.

The vapors can undergo a pre-cooling and a post-cooling when passing through the through-flow connection. This can be achieved in particular by the vapors passing through regions with different temperatures, in particular different surface temperatures, when passing through the through-flow connection.

In particular, means can be provided by which the cooling fluid in a region adjacent to the vapor outlet has a lower temperature, in particular a lower surface temperature, than in a region adjacent to the vapor inlet.

In particular, the container can have a plurality of sub-regions for receiving the cooling fluid. The sub-regions can in particular be designed in such a manner that mixing of cooling fluid from different regions is reduced, in particular prevented. The sub-regions can, for example, be partially or completely separated from each other by partition walls.

According to one aspect of the invention, the through-flow connection has a meander structure. For this purpose, intermediate or partition walls may be provided in the container for guiding the vapor flow. The meander structure, in particular the partition walls, may extend over the entire height of the container. However, it may be advantageous to form the partition walls in such a manner that they end at a distance from the bottom of the container. In particular, the meander structure can be designed in such a manner that it is only formed in an upper section of the container, but not in a lower section of the container. In this case, the partition walls are preferably immersed in the cooling fluid in the container during the operation of the device. They extend in the vertical direction, in particular, into a region which is located below an intended filling height, for example 1 cm, 2 cm or 3 cm. As a result, it can be achieved that the vapor flow must follow the meander structure, while the cooling fluid below the meander structure can circulate freely in the container, in particular in the bottom tray of the container or the sub-regions provided for this purpose.

In particular, the meander structure forms a means for extending the flow path of the vapor flow in the container. According to one aspect of the invention, the flow path of the vapor flow in the container is greater than the largest diameter of the container. In particular, the length of the flow path may be at least one and a half times, in particular at least twice, in particular at least three times the largest diameter of the container.

The length of the flow path in the container may be in particular at least 30 cm, in particular at least 40 cm, in particular at least 50 cm, in particular at least 60 cm, in particular at least 80 cm, in particular at least 100 cm.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device for treating vapors comprises at least one means for adding a cooling fluid to the container and at least one cooling member in the form of a solid body, in particular in the form of a cooling plate.

The cooling fluid in the container and the cooling member form components of a cooling device.

The cooling device can simultaneously serve as a condensation device. In particular, the cooling member can serve as a condensation member on which the vapors can at least partially condense.

The cooling member is in particular arranged in the container and is in particular not formed by a boundary wall of the container. In particular, it is arranged at a distance from the bottom and the lid of the container.

In principle, the lid of the container itself can also be designed as a cooling member and/or form a corresponding cooling member. In this case, the lid can advantageously be cooled from the outside. In particular, it can have fluid cooling and/or air cooling on its outside.

During the operation of the treatment device, the cooling fluid forms part of the cooling device. In particular, the surface of the cooling fluid in the container forms a cooling member. In other words, the cooling device can have a liquid cooling member.

In particular, the cooling device is designed in such a manner that the vapors flow between a layer of the cooling fluid in the container and the cooling member during the operation of the device for preconditioning the latter.

The cooling device is designed in particular in such a manner that vapors flow through between two layers of cooling fluid, in particular between two layers of liquid, during the operation of the device for preconditioning the latter. In doing so, the lower layer is formed by the cooling fluid in the bottom tray of the container. The second layer of liquid is formed by cooling liquid, in particular cooling water, on the solid body cooling member.

According to one aspect of the invention, the at least one solid cooling member comprises one, two or more metal plates. The metal plates are in particular aligned parallel to each other. In particular, they are arranged substantially parallel to the lid of the container. In particular, they may have a maximum inclination relative to the lid of the container of at most 10°, in particular at most 5°, in particular at most 3°, in particular at most 1°.

The metal plate is also called a cooling plate.

According to one aspect of the invention, the at least one plate is aligned in an inclined manner with respect to the horizontal at least in some regions. The tilt with respect to the horizontal can be at least 1°, in particular at least 3°. It may be at most 10°, in particular at most 5°. By tilting the plate to the horizontal, a defined drainage direction for cooling liquid on the plate is achieved.

The metal plate can have a surface structuring, in particular a rolled-in and/or embossed surface structuring. It can also have a polished surface. This can improve condensation on the surface of the metal plate.

The metal plate can have a crowning. This allows a predetermined compensation direction for a possible thermal expansion of the metal plate to be specified. As a result, mechanical stresses of the metal plate in the container can be avoided. The crowning of the metal plate is in particular such that the metal plate bulges in the vertical direction, in particular downwards, in the event of thermal expansion.

The plate can be provided with cooling fins. This can increase the surface area. This can lead to an improvement in the cooling effect.

The shape of the at least one metal plate can in particular be adapted to the shape of the container, in particular to the cross-section of the container, in particular its bottom tray or its top shell.

In particular, the at least one metal plate can in each case have an outer circumference which essentially corresponds to the inner cross-section of the tray of the container.

The plates can be arranged in the container, in particular its upper shell, in a sealed manner on the circumferential side, in particular all around. One or more defined passages, in particular in the form of overflow openings, can be provided here. The plate can also have one or more deeply embossed regions. The embossed regions can ensure a defined level of cooking medium on the plate.

The at least one metal plate is in particular arranged at a distance from the lid of the container and at a distance from the bottom of the container. In particular, it is arranged in such a manner that a space for cooling liquid remains between it and the lid of the container.

There is preferably a space for the cooling fluid between the plate and the bottom of the container.

In principle, it is also possible to arrange one or more tubular cooling members in the container. A coolant can pass through the tubular cooling members. In particular, they can be cooled in a controlled manner by means of a coolant. In particular, they can be components of an external, in particular a closed cooling circuit. This can be advantageous if contact between the vapors and the coolant is to be avoided.

According to one aspect of the invention, the at least one cooling member, in particular the at least one metal plate, is coolable by being brought into contact with a cooling fluid.

This can be the same cooling fluid as the one in the container. In particular, water, especially fresh water, can serve as the cooling fluid. In general, the cooling fluid is preferably a liquid, i.e. a cooling liquid.

The at least one metal plate described above can be cooled in particular by applying cooling water. This is also referred to as active cooling.

One or more metering members can be provided for introducing the cooling water, in particular in the form of fresh water, into the container, in particular for applying cooling water to the cooling member.

The addition of cooling fluid to the at least one cooling member can be performed in a controlled, in particular clocked, manner. In particular, it can be controlled in dependence on one or more sensor signals. In particular, it can also be specified in dependence on a selected operating mode of the cooking appliance. For this purpose, the device for treating vapors can in particular have different operating modes.

The cooling member, in particular the at least one metal plate, can in particular be a component of a heat exchanger. By means of the heat exchanger, thermal energy can be transferred from the vapor flow to a cooling fluid flow, in particular a cooling water flow.

In general, a heat exchanger can be arranged in the container of the device for treating vapours in order to cool the vapors. The heat exchanger can in particular be formed by or comprise the cooling member, which in particular can have cooling water flowing over it.

In principle, two or more heat exchangers, in particular as described above, can also be arranged in the container of the device for treating vapors. These can be arranged parallel to each other or sequentially with regard to the vapor flow. With a plurality of heat exchangers, the cooling capacity for treating vapors can be controlled more flexibly. Individual heat exchangers can be switched on or off as required. This enables a particularly economical mode of operation.

According to one aspect of the invention, the at least one metal plate in each case comprises one or more defined outlets for draining cooling fluid into the container, in particular the bottom tray of the container.

In particular, the drain can be designed in such a manner that there is a curtain formation of the cooling fluid.

A large number of defined drains, in particular pore-like openings, can also be provided. This can create a rain shower effect. This leads to a particularly advantageous cooling of the vapor flow.

The drain openings can in particular have a cross-section in the range of 0.01 mm² to 1000 mm². The cross-section of the drain openings in the cooling member is in particular at least 0.04 mm², in particular at least 0.1 mm², in particular at least 0.4 mm², in particular at least 1 mm². The cross-section of the drain openings in the cooling member can be at most 25 mm², in particular at most 16 mm², in particular at most 9 mm².

The number of drain openings in the at least one cooling plate can be in the range of 1 to 1000. In particular, the number is at most 1000, in particular at most 20.

The at least one drain opening of the at least one metal plate can in particular be arranged in such a manner that the cooling fluid flowing off flows into the bottom tray of the container in a predetermined region. This region can in particular be adjacent to the vapor outlet of the container. In particular, it may be closer to the vapor outlet than to the vapor inlet. The drain opening of the at least one metal plate can in particular also be arranged diagonally opposite the cooling fluid outlet in the container.

The drain opening can in particular form an overflow opening.

According to one aspect, the at least one metal plate in each case comprises an overflow edge.

This allows the metal plate to be completely wetted with cooling fluid, in particular cooling water. In particular, the metal plate can be completely covered with cooling water. In general, cooling water can flow over it.

In general, the plate can have one or more defined overflow edges. The defined overflow edges can ensure that a minimum water level always remains on the top of the metal plate. Due to the water on the metal plate, the latter is cooled down. In particular, it serves as a condensation element on which moisture from the vapors can condense.

In particular, the metal plates can each form carriers for a layer, especially a closed layer, of cooling water.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises at least one inlet for feeding a cooling liquid to the container, wherein the cooling liquid can be fed to the container in such a manner that the through-flow connection extends at least regionally between two liquid layers.

In this context, the upper liquid layer can be supported by a carrier, in particular in the form of a cooling plate, as described above.

The device has in particular a carrier arranged in the container for a layer with cooling liquid. The device is thus designed in such a manner that the through-flow connection runs at least in some regions, in particular over at least 50%, in particular at least 60%, in particular at least 70%, in particular at least 80%, in particular at least 90% of a base area of the container after suitable feeding of cooling liquid to the container between two liquid layers.

The metal plate can be fastened in the container during the assembly of the latter. In particular, it can be clamped between the top shell and the bottom shell of the container.

The cooling member can also have air cooling or be designed in such a manner that it can be cooled by means of air cooling.

The cooling member can also be part of a closed cooling circuit.

According to another aspect of the invention, the container comprises a plurality of flow sub-regions for the cooling fluid.

This can improve the cooling effect.

Different flow sub-regions can be at least partially separated from each other by flow guiding means, in particular by partition walls. Different sub-regions are designed in particular in such a manner that mixing of the cooling fluid within one sub-region is greater than between two different sub-regions.

According to one aspect of the invention, the container has at least one inlet opening for the cooling fluid, which is arranged in such a manner that cooling fluid can be fed to the container in a region of the through-flow connection which is closer to the vapor outlet than to the vapor inlet. This can also achieve or improve post-cooling of the vapor flow.

It is also possible that the container has a plurality of inlet openings for the cooling fluid. This makes it possible to feed cooling fluid to the container at different points.

According to one aspect of the invention, the container has a mains water connection. This allows fresh water to be added as a cooling fluid.

The fresh water can in particular be applied to the cooling member, in particular to the cooling plate. In particular, it can flow over the cooling plate and drain from there into the bottom tray of the container.

It is also possible to directly feed fresh water as a cooling fluid to the bottom tray, in particular to one or more of the previously described sub-regions.

One further cooling option can be provided by internal cooling hoses or pipes. At both ends, these are combined into a supply and discharge line. Inside the container, in order to increase the surface area, they are formed as pipes or hoses with a small diameter, in particular a diameter of at most 2 cm, in particular at most 1 cm, in particular at most 5 mm, in particular at most 3 mm, in particular at most 2 mm, in particular at most 1 mm.

According to one aspect of the invention, cooling fluid, in particular cooling water, can be introduced into the container at one or more points by means of a nebulizer, in particular by means of a nebulizing nozzle. This can further improve the cooling effect.

A nebulization device can be provided, in particular for feeding fresh water. In this case, there is at most a slight risk of the nebulization device, in particular the nebulization nozzle, to become clogged with contaminants.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a control device by means of which the mixing of the cooling fluid in the container and/or an addition of cooling fluid to the container can be controlled, in particular regulated.

The control of the mixing of the cooling fluid in the container and/or the control of the addition of cooling fluid to the container can be controlled in particular in dependence on a temperature of the vapor flow, in particular in a region downstream from the vapor outlet, the relative humidity of the vapor flow, in particular in a region downstream from the vapor outlet, a temperature difference of the vapor flow in the region of the vapor inlet and the vapor outlet, a suction power of an external fan, in particular the volume flow rate of the vapors, or a combination of two or more of these parameters.

The economic efficiency of the device can be improved by appropriate control. In particular, the consumption of cooling fluid, especially cooling water, can be reduced.

According to one aspect of the invention, the through-flow connection has a flow cross-section that increases in the direction of flow. The flow cross-section can in particular increase monotonously, in particular strictly monotonously. It can increase steadily or abruptly. In particular, it can be provided that the flow cross-section of the vapor outlet is larger than the flow cross-section of the vapor inlet. The flow cross-section of the vapor outlet can in particular be at least 1%, in particular at least 5%, in particular at least 10%, in particular at least 30%, in particular at least 50% larger than the flow cross-section of the vapor inlet.

The minimum flow cross-section in the container can be at least 1 cm², in particular at least 3 cm², in particular at least 8 cm². This specification can refer to the empty container. In particular, it refers to the free flow cross-section for the vapor flow when the container is filled with cooling liquid up to a predetermined filling height.

In particular, the container has a cross-sectional area of at least 100 cm², in particular at least 200 cm², in particular at least 400 cm², in particular at least 800 cm².

A corresponding value applies to the free surface of the cooling liquid in the container when it is filled to a predetermined filling height.

The area of the cooling plate on which water can stand is at least 100 cm², in particular at least 200 cm², in particular at least 400 cm², in particular at least 800 cm², in particular at least 1200 cm², in particular at least 1350 cm², in particular at least 1600 cm². It is at most as large as the cross-sectional area of the container.

According to one aspect of the invention, an actuator is arranged downstream from an outlet of the circulation pump, by means of which actuator it is possible to switch between different circulation circuits.

This makes it possible to use the circulation pump, on the one hand, to mix cooling fluid in the container and/or to flush the container with cleaning liquid, and, on the other hand, to pump liquid from the container into the cooking space of the appliance.

A corresponding switchability of different circulation circuits leads in particular to advantages with regard to the cleaning of the receiving space and/or with regard to the cleaning of the container of the device for the treatment of vapors.

In particular, it can be provided that, for cleaning the container for treating vapors and/or for its sterilization, a cleaning agent or another reaction agent is introduced into the container, in particular into the bottom tray, via the fluid outlet in the receiving space. The corresponding agent can then optionally be circulated exclusively in the container or in a circuit which includes both the container and the cooking space.

Corresponding circulation modes can be provided in sequence according to a predetermined scheme.

A three-two-way valve, i.e. a valve with a total of three connections, two of which are different outlets, can serve as the actuator by means of which the different circulation circuits can be switched. A four-three-way valve can also serve as an actuator. In particular, the actuator has two different outlet connections.

The actuator can be controlled in particular by means of a control device.

The container can also have a separate feed opening for adding cleaning agents. This can be advantageous if the container is to be treated with cleaning agents that shall not enter the cooking space of the appliance.

When cleaning the cooking space, the container of the device for treating vapors can serve as a storage container for cleaning agents, in particular cleaning agents which are circulated between the container and the cooking space during cleaning of the cooking space.

When the cooking space is cleaned, the container of the device for treating vapors can also be cleaned at the same time.

The cleaning process can be monitored using the sensors described above. In particular, it can be provided to rinse the cooking space fresh water at predetermined times during the cleaning process. Then, one or more parameters of the rinsing water draining off the cooking space through the fluid outlet can be detected by means of one or more sensors.

This makes it possible to end the cleaning process as soon as a certain degree of purity has been reached. This can save cleaning chemicals and/or reduce water consumption.

Another object of the invention is to improve a device for cleaning vapors.

This object is achieved by an apparatus with a device for treating vapors according to the preceding description.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a fan for applying negative pressure to the container. In particular, the fan is arranged downstream from the vapor outlet of the direction for treating vapors.

With the help of the fan, the vapors can be sucked through the device for treating vapors. This has proven to be particularly efficient for removing the vapors from a cooking product receiving space.

According to one aspect of the invention, the apparatus comprises at least one filter device which is arranged downstream from the vapor outlet of the device for treating vapors and connected thereto in a fluid-conducting manner.

The filter device can in particular have one or more odor filters, in particular one or more activated carbon filters.

A combination of the above-described device for treating vapors with a filter device that is arranged on the downstream side of the latter enables, on the one hand, a particularly advantageous purification of the vapors. In particular, it enables a reduction of the moisture content, the fat content and a reduction of other impurities, especially odors.

In addition, the vapors can be pre-treated with the aid of the device for treating vapors in such a manner that the filter device operates in a particularly favorable, in particular in an optimum operating mode. With the help of the device for treating vapors, it can be achieved in particular that the vapors in the region of the filter device have a temperature and/or relative humidity which fall within a predetermined range.

The device for treating vapors makes it possible to extend the service life of the filters in particular.

According to one aspect of the invention, the apparatus for purifying vapors comprises a device for treating vapors according to the previous description, a fan for applying negative pressure to the container, and at least one filter device, wherein the fan is arranged downstream from the vapor outlet, and wherein the filter device is arranged downstream from the vapor outlet of the device.

In particular, the filter device is connected in a fluid-conducting manner to the device for treating vapors and to the fan. The filter device can in particular be arranged in the flow path between the device for treating vapors and the fan.

According to one aspect of the invention, the filter device is arranged above the device for treating vapors. In particular, it is arranged at least 10 cm, in particular at least 20 cm, in particular at least 30 cm above the device for treating vapors, in particular above the bottom tray of the device for treating vapors. This reliably prevents liquid, in particular cooling liquid, from entering the filter device from the device for treating vapors.

One or more riser pipes can be provided, among other things, for the fluid-conducting connection of the vapor outlet of the device for treating vapors with the filter device.

The fan can be connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device with a sensor device. The sensor device can have one or more sensors. For details thereof, reference is made to the previous description.

The control device for controlling the fan for extracting vapors from the receiving space can also be connected to or integrated in a control device of the cooking appliance in a signal-transmitting manner. This makes it possible to control the extraction of vapors depending on an operating mode of the cooking appliance. For details, reference is made to PCT/EP2020/060413.

Another object of the invention is to improve a cooking appliance for cooking food.

This object is achieved by a cooking appliance comprising a device for treating vapors according to the preceding description.

The cooking appliance is, for example, a baking oven, in particular a steam baking oven, or a steam cooker. It may also be a microwave oven or a combined appliance including a selection of the functions of a baking oven, a steam cooker and a microwave oven. In general, the cooking appliance is a kitchen appliance.

This object is also achieved by a cooking appliance comprising a ventilation device for extracting vapors from the receiving space and a device for treating vapors that have been extracted from the receiving space, which device for treating vapors is arranged in a negative pressure region of the ventilation device.

The advantages result, on the one hand, from those of the device for treating vapors; on the other hand, the arrangement of the latter in a negative pressure region of a ventilation device enables a controlled, guided extraction of the vapors and passage of the latter through the treatment device. In particular, this can be done in a much more controlled manner than the escape of vapors from the cooking space due to an overpressure created there.

A reversibly detachable connecting piece can be provided for the flow-conducting connection of the fluid outlet of the receiving space with the vapor inlet of the device for treating vapors.

According to one aspect, the connecting piece can be fixed, in particular latched, in a sealing manner in the receiving space of the cooking appliance. In this case, a sealing member, in particular in the form of a sealing ring, can be provided in the region of a supporting edge. This sealing ring can be compressed when the connecting piece is latched with members that are provided for this purpose in the receiving space.

Connecting the receiving space to the device for treating vapors via a separate connecting piece allows relative play between these two.

The device for treating vapors can in particular be mounted so that it floats relative to the receiving space. In particular, it can be arranged so that it can move relative to the receiving space. In particular, it has at least one degree of freedom. In particular, it can have both one degree of freedom in the vertical direction and one or two degrees of freedom in the horizontal direction.

The connecting piece may be inserted through the vapor inlet into the container of the device for treating vapors. In particular, it can dip into the container through the vapor inlet in an axially displaceable manner.

The connecting piece can be secured against accidental slipping out of the vapor inlet.

In particular, it can be secured against unintentional slipping out of the container by a sufficiently large immersion depth. The container, in particular its receptacle for the connecting piece, and the connecting piece can overlap in the axial direction of the connecting piece by at least 1 cm, in particular by at least 2 cm, in particular by at least 3 cm.

A seal can be provided in the vapor inlet to seal against the connecting piece when the connecting piece is dipped into the container.

A bayonet lock can be provided to lock the connector to the receiving space. Other types of connection are possible. For example, the connecting piece can also be screwed into the cooking space.

The connecting piece can have a sieve. The sieve serves to retain food residues from the cooking space.

The connecting piece can have a connecting pipe, in particular in the form of a round pipe. The pipe has an outer diameter which is adapted to the inner diameter of the vapor inlet.

By means of the connecting piece, the cooking space and the device for treating vapors are aligned relative to each other.

The connecting piece enables an outwardly liquid-tight, in particular vapor-tight connection of the receiving space with the container of the device for treating vapors. This prevents liquid or vapors from escaping from the receiving space into undesired regions of the cooking appliance and causing damage there.

The connecting piece can preferably be fixed in the receiving space without tools and/or released from the fixation without tools. Alternatively, special tools can be provided for fixing and/or releasing the connecting piece.

With the help of the connecting piece, an expansion in length of the receiving space, which can occur due to temperature fluctuations, can be reversibly compensated. In particular, the connecting piece enables an outwardly sealed connection between the receiving space and the container of the device for treating vapors, regardless of a possible expansion of the receiving space.

The connecting piece can form a means for heat decoupling between the receiving space and the device for treating vapors. It can in particular be made of a material with a low thermal conductivity value or have at least one circumferential region made of a corresponding material. The connecting piece may in particular be made of plastic, in particular of a heat-resistant plastic, or have at least one region made of a corresponding plastic. By heat-resistant a material resistance up to temperatures of at least 100° C., in particular at least 200° C., in particular at least 300° C. is to be understood.

The connecting piece can also be made of the same material, at least in some regions, as the boundary walls of the receiving space of the cooking appliance. In particular, it can be made of a material which has a similar, in particular the same, coefficient of thermal expansion as the material of the boundary walls of the receiving space. This can ensure that it is in tight contact with the fluid outlet of the receiving space even when the latter expands.

The connecting piece can also be partially or completely made of a flexible material, in particular an elastic material. In this case, it can advantageously also be connected to the container of the device for treating vapors in a fixable manner. In particular, it can be tubular or have a tubular region.

The connecting piece can be positively connected to the receiving space.

The connecting piece can be positively connected to the container of the device for treating vapors.

As previously described, downstream from the device for treating vapors, a fan can be arranged for extracting vapors from the receiving space. The device for treating vapors can thus be subjected to negative pressure.

Vapors produced in the cooking space can also be pressed into the container of the device for treating vapors due to an overpressure in the cooking space, in particular due to steam expansion. The device for treating vapors can in particular also be operated without a fan device for generating a negative pressure.

According to the previous description, a filter device, in particular with at least one odor filter, can be arranged downstream from the device for treating vapors. For further details, reference is made to the previous description.

In general, a cooking appliance comprising a device for treating vapors is improved in that the device for treating vapors is arranged in a negative pressure region of the ventilation device.

Such an arrangement of the device for the treatment of vapors ensures a particularly well controllable vapor flow through the device.

The device for treating vapors is in particular a device according to the previous description.

The device may in particular have at least one means for reducing a temperature and/or a humidity of the extracted vapors. The container of the device may in particular have a bottom tray for receiving a cooling liquid. The cooling liquid may constitute the means for reducing the temperature and/or the humidity of the extracted vapors.

The means for reducing the temperature and/or humidity of the extracted vapors can be or is arranged in particular in the container. It is in particular a means provided in addition to the container, which is in particular not formed by the container or a part of its components.

In particular, a volume of cooling liquid that can be arranged in the container can serve as a means for reducing the temperature and/or the humidity of the extracted vapors. The container can in particular have a fluid inlet for supplying cooling liquid. The fluid inlet is in particular separate, in particular spaced apart, from the vapor inlet and vapor outlet. The cooling liquid may in particular be cooling water. The container may in particular have a mains water connection. For further details, reference is made to the previous description.

The device for treating vapors is in particular arranged in the cooking appliance in such a manner that the vapors are sucked in by the fan of the ventilation device through the device for treating vapors or at least can be sucked in.

According to one aspect of the invention, the cooking appliance comprises a control device by means of which a mixing of the cooling fluid in the container and/or an addition of cooling fluid to the container can be controlled.

It is another object of the invention to improve an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes.

This object is achieved by an apparatus comprising a device for treating vapors according to the preceding description.

The advantages arise from those already described. With the help of the device for treating vapors, it is possible in particular to reduce the moisture content of the vapors. This can prevent undesirable condensation effects, especially in inaccessible areas behind kitchen furniture.

The apparatus for extracting cooking fumes can be an extractor fan. In particular, it can be an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes downwards, which is sometimes also referred to as a trough fan or downdraft fan.

The device for treating vapors can be integrated into the apparatus for extracting cooking fumes, in particular into a trough fan. It can also be designed as a separate module. In this case, it can be positioned flexibly, for example in the base region of a base cabinet, or in, on or behind a wall cabinet. In particular, it can be retrofitted to an existing extractor fan apparatus, especially to an extractor fan apparatus including a separate fan module.

When using the device for treating vapors comprising an extractor fan, the exact embodiments of the device for treating vapors can be adapted to its specific conditions. In particular, the dimensions of the device for treating vapors, especially its container, can be adapted to the usually much larger volume flow of an extractor fan. In particular, if the device for treating vapors is designed as a separate module, its dimensions need not be limited to the typical installation dimensions of a cooking or baking appliance. In particular, the container of the device for treating vapors can also have a maximum extension in at least one direction of more than 60 cm, in particular more than 90 cm, in particular more than 120 cm.

The device for treating vapors can in particular be arranged upstream from an odor filter, in particular an activated carbon filter.

It is a further object of the invention to improve a hob system.

This object is achieved by a hob system comprising at least one hob and a device for extracting cooking fumes according to the previous description.

The hob system may in particular be an assembly unit comprising at least one hob and an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes downwards. In doing so, it may comprise a single continuous cooking product carrier plate. A cooking fume inflow opening may be provided in the carrier plate. The cooking fume inflow opening is in particular completely surrounded by the cooking product carrier plate. In particular, it can be arranged in a central region of the cooking product carrier plate. For details, reference is made to EP 2 975 327 B1. The cooking fume inflow opening can also be arranged decentrally in the cooking product carrier plate.

The hob system may be a compact appliance. This is understood to mean that all components of the hob system are integrated into a common appliance. This can lead to a particularly compact design, in particular a design with an overall height of at most 30 cm, in particular at most 25 cm, in particular at most 21 cm.

It is also possible to provide a separate fan module as the fan of the apparatus for extracting cooking fumes. A corresponding fan module can be positioned particularly flexibly, for example in the base region of a base cabinet.

The device for treating vapours can be integrated into the hob system, in particular into a compact appliance. It can also be designed as a separate module. In this case, it can be positioned flexibly, for example in the base region of a base cabinet. In particular, it can be retrofitted to existing hob systems, especially hob systems with a separate fan module.

It is yet another object of the invention to improve a method for treating vapors.

This object is achieved by a method comprising the following steps:

-   -   providing a cooking appliance according to the previous         description,     -   extraction of vapors from the receiving space,     -   wherein the vapors are sucked through a device for treating         vapors according to the previous description.

As already noted, by sucking in the vapors through the device for treating vapors, the vapor flow can be particularly well controlled.

The object is also achieved by a method for treating vapors, in which the vapors pass through, in particular are sucked through, between two liquid layers to reduce their temperature and/or relative humidity.

This has been found to result in a particularly beneficial reduction in the temperature and relative humidity of the vapors.

The two liquid layers are spaced apart from each other, especially in the vertical direction. In particular, there is a lower liquid layer and an upper liquid layer. The upper liquid layer is in particular supported by a cooling member, in particular in the form of a metal plate. For further details, reference is made to the previous description.

This object is further achieved by a method in which cooling fluid is added to the device for treating vapors in a controlled manner in order to control the treatment of the vapors.

The controlled addition of cooling fluid ensures that the vapors are sufficiently cooled. In addition, the consumption of cooling fluid can be reduced.

The addition of fresh water and/or the discharge, in particular the pumping out, of waste water can take place in a clocked manner. In particular, it can take place according to a defined process scheme. In this way, the heat capacity of the cooling water can be optimally utilized for cooling the vapors. As a result, the cooling water consumption can be reduced, in particular minimized.

The process scheme can be selected in dependence on an operating mode of the cooking appliance, in particular selected automatically. In particular, it can be selected automatically in dependence on the temperature and/or humidity in the cooking space. Corresponding process schemes can be stored as different operating modes in a control device.

The control of the addition of the cooling fluid can be carried out in particular in dependence on sensor data. For details, reference is made to the previous description and to the description of the embodiment examples.

According to one aspect of the invention, the device has different operating modes which differ with respect to a clocking of the addition of cooling fluid to the container.

In particular, the device can have two, three, four, five, six or more different operating modes.

The device can also have at least one freely programmable operating mode. In principle, all of the operating modes can be adaptable. This makes it possible to adapt the factory-provided operating modes to different conditions, for example different fresh water temperatures.

The different operating modes can differ in particular by the clocking and/or duration of the addition of cooling water to the container and/or the quantity added in each case.

For example, the clocking can be in the range of 3 seconds to 5 minutes.

The fresh water addition can be in the range of 10 ml to 5 l, in particular in the range of 50 ml to 2 l.

The total consumption of cooling water can be in the range of 50 ml/min to 4 l/min.

It can be provided to generate a continuous circulation of the cooling water in the container during the operation of the device for treating vapors. This can be done with the aid of the circulation pump. In principle, a clocked circulation is also possible. In particular, the latter can be coupled to the clocking of the cooling water addition. Circulation of the cooling water can also be dispensed with.

According to one aspect of the invention, before adding fresh cooling water to the container, it is provided that the cooling water in the container, in particular in the bottom tray, is first pumped out at least partially, in particular largely, preferably completely. In particular, at least 50%, in particular at least 70%, in particular at least 90% of the cooling water in the bottom tray can be pumped out before fresh cooling water is added to the container. The procedure of pumping out can be controlled via the full level sensor. In particular, it is possible to pump out the cooling water in the bottom tray to such an extent that the filling level in the bottom tray falls below a predetermined value.

By pumping out the cooling water in the container before adding new cooling water, it can be ensured that the fresh cooling water mixes as little as possible, preferably not at all, with already heated and/or contaminated cooling water. This can reduce water consumption.

A further object of the invention is to improve a method for operating a cooking appliance.

This object is achieved by a method comprising the following steps:

-   -   providing a cooking appliance according to the previous         description,     -   generating a condition in the receiving space with a temperature         in a predetermined temperature range and/or a humidity in a         predetermined humidity range,     -   controlled extraction of vapors from the receiving space,     -   wherein the vapors are sucked through the device for treating         vapors.

The advantages result from those described above.

According to one aspect of the invention, the extraction and/or the treatment of the vapours is controlled in such a manner that the vapors in the region of a filter device that is arranged between the treatment device and the fan have, at most for a short time, a temperature which is above a predetermined maximum temperature.

In this context, short-term means a maximum of one minute, in particular a maximum of 30 seconds, in particular a maximum of 15 seconds.

By appropriately controlling the extraction and/or the treatment of the vapors, it can be achieved that the filter device always works reliably. Furthermore, damage to the filters can be avoided.

The maximum temperature is in particular at most 100° C., in particular at most 80° C., in particular at most 70° C., in particular at most 60° C., in particular at most 50° C., in particular at most 40° C., in particular at most 30° C.

The extraction and/or the treatment of the vapors can be controlled in such a manner that the vapors in the region of the filter device have, at most for a short time, a relative humidity which is above a predetermined limit value. This can in particular be at most 80%, in particular at most 70%, in particular at most 60%, in particular at most 50%, in particular at most 40%, in particular at most 30%.

By controlling the treatment of the vapors in a targeted manner, it can be achieved in particular that the filter device always operates in the optimum range.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided that if the predetermined maximum temperature and/or the predetermined maximum relative humidity of the vapors is exceeded, at least one of the following actions takes place:

-   -   reduction of suction,     -   addition of cooling fluid to the device for treating vapors, in         particular increasing the clocking of the addition of cooling         fluid to the device for treating vapors,     -   addition of fresh air to the vapor flow,     -   at least partial diversion of the vapor flow,     -   output of corresponding information to the user.

Exceeding the specified maximum temperature and/or the specified maximum value of relative humidity can be determined at a specific measuring point, in particular detected by sensors. The sensors described above can be used for this purpose.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided to omit the addition of cooling water to the device for treating vapors in one or more operating modes of the cooking appliance. This is possible, for example, provided that the temperature in the cooking space remains below a certain limit value, in particular below 100° C., in particular below 80° C., in particular below 60° C., and/or provided that the humidity in the cooking space remains below a predetermined limit value, in particular below 60%, in particular below 50%, in particular below 40%.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided to pump cooling liquid out of the container, in particular out of the bottom tray, before a certain operating mode of the cooking appliance, in particular its fan device, is activated. For example, it may be advantageous to ensure that the filling level of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray is below a predetermined limit value, provided that the suction power of the fan of the fan device, in particular the generated volume flow of the extracted vapors, exceeds a predetermined value.

According to one aspect of the invention, it may be provided to control the filling level of the cooling liquid in the container, in particular in the bottom tray, depending on the volume flow of the extracted vapors.

A further object of the invention is to improve a method for operating a device for extracting cooking fumes.

This object is achieved by a method comprising the following steps:

-   -   providing an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes according to         the preceding description,     -   producing a volume flow of vapors using the apparatus for         extracting cooking fumes,     -   treatment of vapors with the help of the device for treating         vapors.

With the help of the device for treating vapors, the humidity in the vapor flow can be reduced in particular. In particular, it can be reduced to such an extent that it does not exceed a maximum predefined limit value.

According to one aspect of the invention, the treatment of the vapors is carried out in dependence on a parameter that is detected by sensors for determining the moisture content of the vapors.

According to one aspect of the invention, it is provided to control the addition of cooling fluid, in particular cooling liquid, in particular cooling water, in dependence on the humidity in the vapor flow, which can be detected in particular by sensors.

A warning signal can be issued if the specified limit value is exceeded. If no other measures are available, a corresponding warning signal can be employed by the user of the apparatus to take alternative measures, for example to interrupt the cooking process or to feed fresh air to the corresponding room.

In the following, further general advantageous details of various aspects of the invention are once again described.

The container of the device for treating vapors has, in particular, a tray for receiving cooling liquid. The shape and size of the tray can in particular be adapted to the shape and size of the cooking appliance. The container is in particular arranged below the receiving space of the cooking appliance. In particular, it has a horizontal cross-section which is at most as large as that of the receiving space of the cooking appliance. Preferably, the cross-sectional area of the container is at least half as large, in particular at least three quarters as large, as the cross-sectional area of the receiving space of the cooking appliance, in particular as the total cross-section of the cooking appliance. A large surface area leads to a particularly effective reduction in the temperature and/or humidity of the vapors.

The inner side of the container, in particular its bottom and/or walls, are designed in particular in such a manner that the deposition of dirt is prevented. In particular, they can have a self-cleaning or antibacterial coating.

The container preferably has the lowest possible overall height. The overall height of the container, in particular the average distance between the bottom and the lid of the container, measured between their inner sides, is in particular at most 20 cm, in particular at most 10 cm, in particular at most 7 cm.

The container can have an inclined bottom. The inclination is in particular in the range of 1° to 10°, in particular up to 6°. The bottom can in particular be designed in such a manner that it has a slope, in particular a strictly monotonous slope towards the lowest point of the container. A strictly monotonous slope is understood to mean that there is a path from any point in the container to the lowest point of the container which is exclusively downward. Liquid can therefore flow from any point at the bottom of the container to the lowest point of the container.

Advantageously, one or more adjustment means, for example in the form of adjustment screws, can be provided at the container by means of which the exact alignment of the container can be adjusted. This is particularly advantageous if a supporting surface on which the cooking appliance is mounted is not aligned perfectly horizontally.

One or more flow guiding means can be provided in the container. In particular, flow guiding means for the cooling fluid flow can be provided in the bottom tray of the container. One or more flow guiding means for the vapor flow may also be provided. In particular, it can be provided to guide the vapor flow along a meander structure through the container. This can increase the effective flow path of the vapors in the container.

According to another aspect of the invention, the container may be configured such that a free flow cross-section increases from the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet. In particular, it may be provided that the vapor outlet has a larger flow cross-section than the vapor inlet.

The container can be sealed in an airtight manner to the outside apart from the designated inlets and outlets.

The circulation pump for circulating the cooling fluid in the container can be part of a circuit with a circulation channel that is separate from the through-flow connection. The separate circulation channel can run at least partially outside the through-flow region, in particular outside the container. It can open into the container via a circulation channel outlet.

By means of the circulation pump, the cooling liquid can be pumped against the direction of flow.

The circulation pump can have a maximum delivery rate of at least 2 l/min, in particular at least 3 l/min, in particular at least 4 l/min, in particular at least 5 l/min, in particular at least 8 l/min, in particular at least 12 l/min, in particular at least 15 l/min.

A water level sensor can be arranged in the container. The water level sensor is preferably arranged adjacent to the pump-out pump. It is preferably arranged adjacent to the lowest point of the container. The distance between the water level sensor and the pump-out pump or the lowest point of the container is in particular at most 10 cm, in particular at most 5 cm, in particular at most 3 cm. The water level sensor can in particular be arranged in a corner of the container.

With the help of the water level sensor, it can be ensured that the cooling liquid in the container is at, does not exceed or does not fall below a certain, predetermined filling height during the operation of the device. The predetermined filling height can be, for example, at least 1 cm, in particular at least 1.5 cm. It may be, for example, at most 5 cm, in particular at most 3 cm, in particular at most 2 cm. In particular, it can be a maximum of 50% of the distance between the bottom tray of the container and its top shell or the underside of the lowest cooling plate.

The total volume of the cooling liquid in the container when the latter is filled with a predetermined filling height can be in the range of 0.5 l to 10 l, in particular in the range of 1 l to 5 l, in particular at most 3 l. Deviating dimensions are possible, in particular depending on the maximum volume flow to be expected.

To reduce the required volume for a given filling height and cross-section of the container, liquid-displacing protrusions, in particular in the form of embossments, can be provided on the container bottom.

The cooling liquid in the container has in particular a free surface of at least 500 cm², in particular at least 700 cm², in particular at least 1000 cm². Deviating dimensions are possible, in particular depending on the maximum expected volume flow. For the largest possible reaction surface, it is advantageous to make the contact surface of the cooling liquid with the vapor flow as large as possible.

The container is made of a material, in particular plastic, which is temperature-resistant up to a temperature of at least 100° C., in particular at least 180° C., in particular at least 230° C., in particular at least 300° C.

The container is made of a material, in particular plastic, which is media-resistant, in particular acid-resistant and/or alkali-resistant.

Further details and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description of embodiment examples based on the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a cooking appliance with a controllable ventilation device in a first functional mode,

FIG. 2 shows an illustration according to FIG. 1 in a second functional mode,

FIG. 3 shows an illustration according to FIG. 1 in a third functional mode,

FIG. 4 shows a schematic, partial side view of a cooking space that is arranged in a housing and a device for treating vapors that is connected thereto in a fluid-conducting manner,

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a device for treating vapors according to FIG. 4 ,

FIG. 6 an exploded image of the device for treating vapors according to FIG. 5 ,

FIG. 7 shows an illustration of a bottom tray of the device for treating vapors according to FIG. 5 ,

FIG. 8 shows an illustration of a cooling plate that is arranged in the device for treating vapors,

FIG. 9 shows an illustration of an alternative embodiment of a bottom tray of a device for treating vapors,

FIG. 10 shows an illustration of a lid having a meander structure for a device for treating vapors,

FIG. 11 shows a schematic illustration explaining flow paths in a cooling fluid in the bottom tray of a device for treating vapors,

FIG. 12 shows a cross-section through a device for treating vapors,

FIG. 13 shows a schematic illustration explaining the operating principle of a device for treating vapors,

FIGS. 14 and 15 shows perspective views of a connecting piece for connecting a cooking space of the cooking appliance to a device for treating vapors,

FIG. 16 shows a schematic sectional view of a hob system designed as an assembly unit with a device for treating vapors, and

FIG. 17 shows a schematic illustration of a device for extracting cooking fumes with a modular device for treating vapors and a base fan.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following, a possible construction and components of an apparatus for heating cooking products are described as an example. It is therefore referred to in the following as cooking appliance 1. In particular, it can be a pressureless cooking appliance. In particular, it may be a baking oven, a steam cooker, a combination steam cooker, i.e. a baking oven with a steam cooking function, a microwave oven or a combined appliance having a selection from the aforementioned functions.

The cooking appliance 1 has a housing 2. The housing 2 surrounds a receiving space 3 for receiving the cooking product to be heated. The receiving space 3 is also referred to as the cooking space.

The housing 2 can be essentially cuboid-shaped. In particular, it can have a front side 4 and a rear side 5. In particular, it has a bottom 6 and a top 7. It also has side walls.

The housing 2 has, in particular, a closable opening 8 for loading the receiving space 3 with cooking products. The opening 8 can be closed by means of a closure member, in particular in the form of a door 9. The door 9 is in particular a hinged door. The door can in particular be pivoted about a pivot axis 10. The pivot axis 10 is preferably located in the lower region of the door 9 when it is closed. Alternative arrangements of the door 9 and alternative embodiments of the closure element are possible.

In addition to and separate from the opening 8 for loading the receiving space 3 with cooking products, the housing 2 has a fresh air inlet 11 and an exhaust air outlet 12.

The fresh air inlet 11 is preferably arranged in the region of the front side 4 of the housing 2.

The exhaust air outlet 12 is preferably located in the region of the rear side 5 or in the region of a side wall of the housing 2.

The cooking appliance 1 also comprises a heating device 13, which is only shown schematically in the figures. The heating device 13 servers for direct or indirect transfer of thermal energy to the cooking products to be heated. The heating device 13 may have one or more heating members. The heating members may be arranged inside the receiving space 3 or outside the same. Corresponding alternatives are known from the prior art, for example from DE 101 58 425 C1.

The cooking appliance 1 has a means for generating a circulating air flow in the receiving space 3. This means for generating a circulating air flow is shown schematically in the figures as a fan wheel 14. It can preferably be arranged in the region of the rear side of the receiving space 3.

In addition, the cooking appliance 1 comprises a ventilation device. The ventilation device can have a plurality of functions. On the one hand, it can serve to generate an air flow for cooling certain components of the cooking appliance 1. On the other hand, it may serve to control the ventilation of the receiving space 3. According to the invention, these functions can be realized by means of a single ventilation device. According to an alternative not shown in the figures, it is also possible to provide at least partially separate ventilation devices for the different functions.

The ventilation device comprises at least one fan 15, which is only shown schematically in the figures. A radial fan is preferably used as the fan. Alternatively, an axial or cross-flow fan can also be used as a fan. A combination of different fans is also possible. In particular, the ventilation device may comprise a single fan 15 or a single fan unit with one or more fans. For example, it is possible to arrange a plurality of fans next to each other in a single fan unit. This can reduce the installation space required for the fan unit, in particular the overall height. In addition, such a fan unit can be controlled in a particularly flexible manner.

The fan 15 is preferably arranged in the region of the exhaust air outlet 12.

The fan 15 serves to generate a volume flow V° (here V° denotes the volume flow dV/dt. The volume flow V° that can be generated by means of the fan 15 is in the range of up to 50 m³/h, in particular in the range of up to 100 m³/h, in particular in the range of up to 200 m³/h, in particular in the range of up to 300 m³/h, in particular in the range of up to 500 m³/h.

Furthermore, the ventilation device comprises a flow guiding system 16. The flow guiding system 16 comprises a first sub-system for guiding a flow with cooling air 17. The cooling air 17 is formed in particular by fresh air sucked into the housing 2 through the fresh air inlet 11.

The cooling air 17 is guided in a meandering manner through the flow guiding system 16. In particular, starting from the fresh air inlet 11, it is first guided from the front side 4 of the housing 2 along the upper side of the receiving space 3 into the rear region of the housing 2. It is then deflected and guided back into the region of the front side 4 of the housing 2. There it is diverted again and guided to the exhaust air outlet 12 at the rear side 5 of the housing 2. A larger number of deflections, in particular a larger number of meander loops, is also possible.

The cooling air 17 is fed into the flow guiding system 16, in particular from the front. The exhaust air 18 is fed into the flow guiding system 16, in particular from the rear.

To minimize the pressure loss in the flow guiding system 16, preferably as few deflections as possible are provided and the flow paths are designed as short as possible.

The cooling air flow is shown schematically in the figures by solid arrows.

Further, the flow guiding system 16 comprises a sub-system for guiding a flow of exhaust air 18 extracted from the receiving space 3. The exhaust air flow is schematically represented by dashed arrows in the figures.

The cooling air 17 drawn in through the fresh air inlet 11 can be fed to the region of the flow guiding system 16 with the flow of the extracted exhaust air 18 via a feed opening 33.

The flow guiding system 16 thus serves to guide the air flow with the fresh air that is sucked into the housing 2 and/or to guide the air flow with exhaust air 18 that is extracted from the receiving space 3.

The two sub-systems partially overlap. In particular, it is provided to feed the air flow with the cooling air 17 in a controlled manner to the air flow of the exhaust air 18 that is extracted from the receiving space 3.

To control the air flows in the housing 2, the ventilation device has a control means for controlling the extraction of the exhaust air 18 from the receiving space 3. In particular, a controllable valve 19 can serve as a control means for controlling the extraction of the exhaust air 18 from the receiving space 3. The valve 19 is arranged in the region of a fluid outlet 20 in the bottom of the receiving space 3.

On the downstream side of the fluid outlet 20, a device for condensing water vapor that is contained in the exhaust air that is extracted from the receiving space 3 is arranged. The condensation device 28 may comprise a channel system with meandering channels. Cooling water 29 may be arranged in the channel system. A fresh water inlet 30 serves to fill the condensation device 28 with cooling water 29. A waste water pipe 31 serves to empty the condensation device 28. The condensation device 28 generally forms a device 40 for treating vapors.

The fresh water inlet 30 and the waste water pipe 31 are only shown schematically in the figures. Together they are referred to as the mains water connection. The mains water connection can also be used to clean the receiving space 3. For this purpose, the cooking appliance 1 may have a special cleaning programme. This enables automated cleaning of the receiving space 3.

For details of the condensation device 28, reference is made to DE 10 2008 012 961 A1 by way of example.

The control means for controlling the extraction of the exhaust air 18 from the receiving space 3 is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a central control device 21. The central control device 21 is arranged in an encapsulated electronics housing 22. The electronics housing 22 is designed to be encapsulated, in particular liquid-tight, in particular vapor-tight. The electronics housing 22 is arranged in particular in the flow guiding system 16, in particular in the sub-system for guiding the cooling air 17. The cooling air 17 thus serves to cool the electronics housing 22, in particular the electrical and/or electronic components arranged therein. All electrical and electronic components for controlling the cooking appliance 1 can be arranged in the electronics housing 22.

As shown in the figures, the electronics housing 22 can be arranged above the receiving space 3, in particular in the region of the top 7 of the housing 2. Alternatively, it is possible to arrange the electronics housing 22 laterally, behind or below the receiving space 3, in particular in the region of the bottom 6 of the housing 2. This can provide improved protection against overheating of the electrical and/or electronic components.

The ventilation device further comprises a control means for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving space 3. A ventilation flap 23 or a valve or, in general, an actuating member, in particular a controllable actuating member, serves as the control means for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving space 3.

The ventilation flap 23 can be used to close a fresh air opening 11 through which fresh air can be fed to the receiving space 3. Fresh air can be fed to the receiving space 3 from the rear side of the appliance. The fresh air that is fed to the receiving space 3 can in particular be supplied from the rear side of the appliance without a guide. In particular, it can be supplied via a flow path which is not in flow connection with the fresh air inlet 11. The fresh air that is supplied to the receiving space 3 is in particular independent of the cooling air 17 that is drawn in through the fresh air inlet 11.

The control means for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving space 3 is connected to the central control device 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

The control means for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving space 3 is arranged, for example, in the region of the rear side of the receiving space 3. Other arrangements are also possible.

Furthermore, the ventilation device comprises at least one control means for controlling the supply of the air flow of the cooling air 17 that is sucked into the housing 2 to the air flow of the exhaust air 18 that is extracted from the receiving space 3. This control means is preferably designed as an adjustable flap 24. It can also be designed as a valve, in particular a multi-way valve, in particular comprising at least two inlets and one outlet.

The closure flap 24 is connected to the central control device 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

Preferably, all control means of the ventilation device are directly or indirectly coupled with each other. They are preferably all connected to the central control device 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

Furthermore, the cooking appliance 1, in particular the ventilation device, comprises a means for cleaning exhaust air. A filter module 25 serves as the means for cleaning exhaust air. The filter module 25 comprises in particular an odor filter. In particular, it comprises an activated carbon filter. It may also comprise a grease filter and/or further filters. The filter module 25 is arranged in particular in the region of the front side 4 of the cooking appliance 1. It is arranged in particular behind a removable front panel 26.

The filter module 25 is preferably removable from the housing 2. In particular, it can be replaced. In particular, the filter module 25 can be removed from the housing 2 without tools. This facilitates the replacement of the filter module 25.

The filter module 25 is arranged in the flow guiding system 16 in such a manner that both the exhaust air 18 and the cooling air 17 pass through it.

The filter module 25 is arranged in front of the electronics housing 22 in the direction of flow. Purified air thus flows around the electronics housing 22 during the operation of the cooking appliance 1, in particular during the operation of the ventilation device.

The filter module 25 is arranged in particular in front of the fan 15 in the direction of flow, i.e. in the negative pressure region of the fan 15. The fan 15 is thus subjected to purified air during the operation of the ventilation device.

A sensor device 35 can be arranged in the flow guiding system 16 to detect the temperature and/or humidity of the volume flow V 0 that is generated by means of the fan 15. The sensor device 35 is arranged, for example, in the region of the filter module 25. It can also be arranged in the region of the electronics housing 22 or in the region of the fan 15. It is preferably arranged on the upstream side of the fan 15.

The sensor device 35 is preferably arranged on the downstream side of the feed opening 33, in particular at a distance therefrom.

The details of the ventilation device and in particular the details of the filter module 25 are advantageous independently of the other details of the cooking appliance 1 and in themselves lead to an improvement of a device for heating cooking products.

The front panel 26 can in particular have a display and/or an operating device with one or more operating elements. This may in particular be a touch-sensitive display (touch display).

In particular, the display can have a very heavily tinted front glass (black panel effect). This can be used to ensure that contours between a display, adjacent functional components such as capacitive buttons and a housing or locking pressure are not visible.

In addition, the cooking appliance 1 comprises a sensor device 27 that is arranged in the receiving space 3. The sensor device 27 comprises at least one sensor for detecting the temperature and/or the humidity in the receiving space 3. The sensor device 27 is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to the central control device 21. With the aid of the sensor device 27, in particular a feedback control of the control means of the ventilation device, in particular of the ventilation flap 23 and/or of the valve 19 and/or of the flap 24 is possible.

Moreover, the cooking appliance 1 has a device 32, which is also only shown schematically, for controlling the humidity in the receiving space 3. The device 32 for controlling the humidity in the receiving space 3 is preferably connected to the mains water connection.

Details of the device 40 for treating vapors, its arrangement in the cooking appliance 1 and its operating principle are described below. The details of the device 40 for treating vapors can be independent of the other details of the cooking appliance and can advantageously be used.

The device 40 for treating vapors can interact with other components of the cooking appliance 1, in particular the ventilation device and/or the filter device with the filter module 25.

The device 40 for treating vapors comprises a fluid-tight container with a vapor inlet 41 and a vapor outlet 42.

The container has a bottom tray 43. The bottom tray 43 serves to receive cooling liquid, in particular in the form of cooling water.

The container has a lid 44.

The lid 44 can be detachably connected to the bottom tray 43. In particular, it can be latched to the bottom tray 43. For this purpose, latching means are provided on the bottom tray 43 and on the lid 44, in particular in the form of latching tabs 45 with latching lugs and recesses 46 cooperating therewith.

The latching means can be arranged circumferentially at the bottom tray 43 and at the lid 44.

Other types of connection are also possible. For example, the lid 44 can also be screwed to the bottom tray 43. A detachable connection between the lid 44 and the bottom tray 43 leads to advantages with regard to cleaning the container and/or in case of repairs.

The lid 44 and/or the bottom tray 43 can be designed to be profiled. In particular, they can be provided with stiffening struts 59. The stiffening struts 59 can form a hexagonal pattern, for example. The stiffening struts 59 can be used in particular to increase the bending stiffness of the lid 44 and/or the bottom region of the bottom tray 43.

The bottom tray 43 and/or the lid 44 are made of a fluid-tight material. They are in particular made of a heat-resistant material. The material of the bottom tray 43 and/or the lid 44 is in particular heat-resistant up to temperatures of at least 100° C., in particular at least 200° C., in particular at least 300° C.

The bottom tray 43 and/or the lid 44 are preferably made of a rustproof material. They are preferably made of an acid-resistant and/or alkali-resistant material.

The bottom tray 43 and/or the lid 44 can in particular be made at least in some regions, in particular completely, of plastic or of metal, in particular of stainless steel.

Preferably, the bottom tray 43 and the lid 44 are made of the same material. This ensures that they do not leak due to different coefficients of thermal expansion during the operation of the cooking appliance 1.

The lid 44 can be made at least in part, in particular completely, of the same material as the receiving space 3 of the cooking appliance 1, in particular its bottom wall. The lid 44 can also be made of a different material than that of the bottom wall of the receiving space 3.

The container is arranged below the receiving space 3. The receiving space 3 is connected to the vapor inlet 41 via the fluid outlet 20 in a fluid-conducting manner. A connecting piece 47 is provided for the connection between the receiving space 3 and the container of the device 40 for treating vapors.

There is a space between the container of the device 40, in particular the lid 44 thereof, and the receiving space 3, in particular its bottom. This can be at least partially filled with a heat-insulating material. Air can also serve as a heat-insulating material.

The receiving space 3 has a bottom which slopes down towards the fluid outlet 20. The bottom of the receiving space 3 can, in particular in some regions, be designed to slope down towards the fluid outlet 20. It can also be horizontal in some regions. Preferably, the fluid outlet 20 is arranged at the lowest point of the receiving space 3.

The connecting piece 47 has a tubular portion 48. A sieve 49 is arranged at the tubular portion 48. The sieve 49 can in particular be arranged at the end of the tubular portion 48. The sieve 49 can in particular be formed in one piece with the tubular portion 48.

The sieve 49 is integrated into the connecting piece 47.

The connecting piece 47 has a circumferential collar 50. The collar 50 forms an abutment shoulder which rests against the bottom of the receiving space 3 when the connecting piece 47 is arranged in the cooking appliance 1. In this case, a sealing member, in particular in the form of a sealing ring 51, is provided between the collar 50 and the bottom of the receiving space 3. The sealing ring 51 is compressible. It seals the connection between the connecting piece 47 and the receiving space 3.

The connecting piece 47 has latching means 52. The latching means 52 are distributed over the outer circumference of the tubular portion 48, in particular evenly distributed. The latching means 52 can form a bayonet lock. They cooperate with countermeans provided for this purpose at the bottom of the receiving space 3.

The sieve 49 has a plurality of elongated holes. The sieve 49 may have a hole in the center. The collar 50 may be formed by a protruding edge of the sieve 49.

The connecting piece 47 is made of plastic, in particular heat-resistant plastic. It is made of heat-resistant plastic, at least in some regions. It can also be made of metal, at least in some regions.

The connecting piece 47 is preferably made in one piece. However, a multi-part design is possible.

The tubular portion 48 is in particular circular-cylindrical in shape. It has an outer diameter which is adapted to the inner diameter of the vapor inlet 41.

A seal, in particular in the form of a sealing ring 53, is provided between the tubular portion 48 and the vapor inlet 41. The sealing ring 53 is integrated in particular in the container of the device 40 for treating vapors. In particular, it may be integrated in the lid 44. The sealing ring 53 allows a sealed connection between the connecting piece 47 and the container of the device 40 for treating vapors. The sealing ring 53 encloses the tubular portion 48 tightly, in particular fluid-tightly.

The tubular portion 48 is insertable into the container through the vapor inlet 41. It allows a floating connection between the container of the device 40 and the receiving space 3.

The connecting piece 47 leads to an alignment of the container of the device 40 relative to the receiving space 3.

The connecting piece 47 has only a small contact surface to the receiving space 3. It can therefore lead to a heat decoupling between the receiving space 3 of the cooking appliance 1 and the container of the device 40.

The connecting piece 47 can be removed from the inner side of the receiving space 3. In particular, it can be removed without tools. According to one variant, special tools are required to remove the connecting piece 47.

The sieve 49 is located in the fluid outlet 20 of the receiving space 3.

The connecting piece 47, in particular the seal with respect to the receiving space 3 and with respect to the container of the device 40, can prevent liquid or vapors from the receiving space 3 or from the device 40 for treating vapors from entering undesired regions of the cooking appliance 1. In particular, this can prevent the cooking appliance 1 from being damaged.

The connecting piece 47 serves in particular to at least partially, in particular completely, compensate for a temperature-dependent linear expansion of the receiving space 3. This ensures that the connection from the receiving space 3 to the container of the device 40 is always fluid-tight to the outside. According to a variant not shown, one or more flexible means or regions can also be provided for this purpose in the connecting element between the receiving space 3 and the device 40 and/or in the region of its arrangement in the receiving space 3.

The fluid outlet 20 can be arranged in the front half, in particular in the front third, of the receiving space 3. In particular, it is arranged centrally between the side walls of the receiving space 3. This is not mandatory. It can also be arranged at the edge of the receiving space 3.

The vapor inlet 41 is arranged directly below the fluid outlet 20. The vapor inlet 41 is arranged in particular in vertical alignment with the fluid outlet 20.

The positioning of the fluid outlet 20 in the receiving space 3 can therefore influence the arrangement of the vapor inlet 41 in the lid 44 of the device 40. This can influence the flow path extending from the vapor inlet 41 to the vapor outlet 42.

A through-flow connection, which connects the vapor inlet 41 with the vapor outlet 42 along a direction of flow in a fluid-conducting manner, is formed between the bottom tray 43 and the lid 44.

The container, in particular the bottom tray 43, has rounded edges.

The vapor outlet 42 protrudes upwards over the vapor inlet 41.

The vapor outlet 42 serves as a connection for a riser pipe 54.

The device 40 is coupled to the fan device of the cooking appliance 1 via the riser pipe 54. The riser pipe 54 is in particular a component of the flow guiding system 16. A sensor device 55 comprising one or more sensors for detecting one or more parameters of the vapor flow can be arranged in the riser pipe 54.

In particular, the sensor device 55 may comprise one or more temperature sensors, one or more humidity sensors, one or more conductivity sensors, one or more volume flow sensors and/or other sensors.

In particular, electrical, mechanical, chemical or optical sensors can serve as sensors.

The sensor device 55 is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device not shown in the figures for controlling the device 40 for treating vapors and/or for controlling the ventilation device of the cooking appliance 1 and/or for controlling the heating device 13 of the cooking appliance 1.

The fluid outlet 20 can be arranged in a lowered region of the receiving space 3. The lowered region can in particular be shaped like a truncated pyramid. In this case, the top surface of the truncated pyramid, which is formed by the bottom wall of the receiving space 3, does not necessarily have to be parallel to the base surface, which is only formed geometrically, but not by a material component. The top surface, in particular the bottom of the receiving space 3, can in particular be designed to slope downwards, in particular towards the fluid outlet 20, at least in portions.

The recess in the bottom of the receiving space 3 can be covered by means of a cooking space sieve. In particular, the cooking space sieve can be arranged in the receiving space 3 in such a manner that it is flush with the remaining area of the bottom of the receiving space 3 and forms a substantially flat bottom surface. The cooking space sieve retains food residue. It can prevent vortex formation.

The cooking space sieve is freely removable. This makes it easier to clean. In particular, it can be lifted on one side by pressing on the other side. This can make it easier to remove.

The cooking space sieve can be designed to be rectangular. It can also be configured to be non-rectangular and trapezoidal. This can ensure a predetermined, clear alignment of the cooking space sieve in the bottom of the receiving space 3.

The cooking space sieve can be dimensioned in such a manner that its longest side is at least half as large as the free width of the receiving space 3. The longest side of the cooking space sieve is in particular at least as large as 60%, in particular 70%, in particular 80%, in particular 90% of the free width of the receiving space 3. In the direction perpendicular thereto, the cooking space sieve has an extension of at least 5 cm, in particular at least 10 cm, in particular at least 15 cm, in particular at least 20 cm.

The resulting large sieve surface has proven to be particularly advantageous. It leads to a reduction of flow losses. In addition, the sieve does not clog as quickly.

The cooking space sieve can be fixed to the bottom of the receiving space. One or more fixing means, for example screws or magnets, can be provided for this purpose.

A cooling plate 56 is arranged between the bottom tray 43 and the lid 44. The cooling plate 56 is arranged completely in the interior of the container, in particular completely in the bottom tray 43. It can be clamped between the bottom tray 43 and the lid 44.

The cooling plate 56 has an outer circumference which is adapted, at least in portions, to an inner circumference of the bottom tray 43. In particular, the cooling plate 56 can rest on the edge of a support edge formed in the bottom tray 43.

The cooling plate 56 has a trough-like design. It has a circumferential overflow edge 57.

As can be seen in FIG. 8 by way of example, the cooling plate 56 can have two drain openings 75. Generally, the cooling plate 56 has at least one drain opening 75 for draining the cooling liquid.

A receptacle 77 may be provided on the cooling plate 56 to receive the fresh water inlet 65.

The drain openings 75 may be located adjacent to the recess 58 for passage of the connecting piece 47.

The recesses 58 can form overflow openings.

The cooling plate 56 is configured to be flat in some regions. The individual regions of the cooling plate 56 can be configured to be slanted, in particular sloping, and/or arranged in the bottom tray 43. As a result, a defined drainage direction for cooling water applied to the cooling plate 56 can be achieved.

Defined bending points 78 can be provided in the cooling plate 56. In particular, the cooling plate 56 can be crowned. In this way, a defined direction of expansion can be specified in the event of thermal expansion. This ensures that an expansion of the cooling plate 56 does not lead to damage of the bottom tray 43 or the lid 44.

A recess 58 is provided in the cooling plate 56 for the connecting piece 47 to pass through. Preferably, the sealing ring 53 engages in the recess 58. By means of the sealing ring 53, the passage of the connecting piece 57 through the recess 58 can be sealed.

Alternatively, the recess 58 can also serve to drain cooling water from the cooling plate 56 into the bottom tray 43.

A circulation pump 60 is arranged in the container of the device 40. The circulation pump 60 serves to circulate cooling liquid in the container, in particular in the bottom tray 43. It generally forms a means for mixing cooling fluid in the container.

The circulation pump 60 can be arranged in a receptacle provided for this purpose in the lid 44. It preferably has a suction region which is arranged in a pump sump 61 that is formed in the bottom tray 43.

The pump sump 61 is located in a lowered region 62 relative to the rest of the bottom tray 43. The pump sump 61 may also be formed by the lowered region 62.

The bottom tray 43 may have a bottom region 66 sloping down towards the lowered region 62. This can be seen, for example, in FIG. 4 . In FIG. 7 , gradient lines 67 are drawn as an example.

In particular, the bottom tray 43 can be designed to slope downwards, in particular monotonously, from the region in which cooling liquid passes from the cooling plate 56 through the drain openings 75 into the bottom tray 43 to the lowered region 62.

The circulation pump 60 has an outlet which leads into the bottom tray 43. The outlet of the circulation pump 60 can open directly into the bottom tray 43 or be guided via a fluid line, in particular in the form of a hose or a pipe, to a specific region of the bottom tray 43. The fluid line from the circulation pump 60 back to the bottom tray 43 can be guided outside the container of the device 40 in some regions.

Flow-guiding members, for example one or more valves, in particular multi-way valves, can be arranged in the return line from the circulation pump 60 to the bottom tray 43. These are preferably connected to a control device. This makes it possible to control the circulation circuit. In particular, it is possible to form more than one flow path for the circulation circuit.

In particular, the cooking appliance 1 can have a plurality of circulation circuits with different flow paths. For example, a first flow path can run completely inside the container 40. An alternative flow path can comprise a flow branch outside the container, but no flow region in the receiving space 3. Via the flow branch outside the container, additives, for example fresh water, cleaning agents, in particular antibacterial agents, or other additives can be selectively added to the circulated liquid. Preferably, the flow path of the circulation circuit can be controlled.

In addition to the container of the device 40, a further circulation circuit may comprise the receiving space 3 of the cooking appliance 1. This circuit can be used for cleaning the receiving space 3. In particular, a corresponding circuit may be used for selective cleaning of the device 40 for treating vapors, in particular of the container thereof, in particular of the bottom tray 43 and/or of the lid 44 and/or of the cooling plate 56. In doing so, the device 40 for treating vapors, in particular the container thereof, can be cleaned at the same time.

The device 40 may comprise a pump 63 for pumping a fluid, in particular cooling water and/or service water, out of the bottom tray 43.

In particular, the device 40 may comprise a first pump in the form of the circulation pump 60 and a second pump in the form of the pump 63.

The two pumps 60, 63 can be arranged next to each other.

The two pumps 60, 63 can be configured to be essentially identical.

Instead of two pumps 60, 63, a single pump and a suitable actuator can also be provided. In particular, the pump can switch between a circulation mode and a pump-off mode. This can also be achieved in particular via different positions of the actuator.

The pump 63 can be arranged in a receptacle provided for this purpose in the lid 44. It preferably has a suction region which is arranged in a pump sump 61 formed in the bottom tray 43. Preferably, the pump sump 61 of the pump 63 is arranged at the lowest point of the bottom tray 43 and/or forms the lowest point thereof.

One or a plurality of adjustment means, in particular in the form of adjustment screws, can be provided for aligning the bottom tray 43. This can facilitate a precise alignment of the bottom tray 43. In particular, this can ensure that the bottom tray 43 can be precisely aligned irrespective of the specific conditions of the intended installation or mounting location for the cooking appliance 1. With the help of the adjustment means, a targeted alignment of the bottom tray 43 is possible even if the cooking appliance 1 is to be set up on an installation surface that is not perfectly horizontal.

A filling level sensor 64 can be arranged in the container of the device 40. The filling level sensor 64 is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device for controlling the supply and/or discharge of cooling fluid to the container. The filling level sensor 64 may also be connected in a signal-transmitting manner to the central control device 21 of the cooking appliance 1.

The device 40 has a mains water connection. The mains water connection can serve to feed cooling fluid, in particular in the form of fresh water, to the container.

Cooling fluid, in particular in the form of fresh water, can be supplied to the device 40, for example, via the circulation circuit with the circulation pump 60 and/or a specific fresh water inlet 65.

In principle, it is also possible to supply fresh water via the vapor inlet 41.

Fresh water in particular can be applied to the cooling plate 56 via the fresh water inlet 65. The fresh water can in particular form a cooling medium for cooling the cooling plate 56.

It may be provided to detect the temperature of the cooling plate 56 by means of one or a plurality of sensors. These sensors can be connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device for controlling the addition of fresh water to the cooling plate 56. In particular, it can be provided that the addition of fresh water to the cooling plate 56 is controlled by sensors. In particular, the addition can take place in dependence on a temperature of the cooling plate 56. For the addition of cooling water to the cooling plate 56, other parameters can also be taken into account, for example the humidity of the extracted vapors and/or the volume flow and/or the functional mode of the fan device.

The bottom region 66 can be configured to be flat. According to a variant that is exemplarily shown in FIG. 9 , the bottom region 66 has protrusions 68. Such protrusions 68 can serve to reduce the volume of liquid in the bottom tray 43 at a given filling level.

According to the variant shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the bottom region 66 is configured to be flat, in particular free of flow-guiding members.

As shown by way of example in FIG. 9 , it may be provided to divide the bottom tray 43, in particular starting from the base region 66, into several sub-regions 66 ₁, 66 ₂. The sub-regions can be separated from each other by flow-guiding means, in particular in the form of partition walls 69.

The partition walls 69 can be designed in such a manner that mixing of cooling liquid from different sub-regions 66 _(i), 66 _(j) with i≠j is only reduced or completely prevented.

Generally, the mixing of the cooling fluid is more complete within a given sub-region 66 _(i) than between two different sub-regions 66 _(i), 66 _(j) with i≠j.

In particular, if the bottom tray 43 is subdivided into separate sub-regions 66 _(i) with i=1 . . . n; 2≤n, in particular n≤10, in particular n≤5, in particular n≤3, multi-stage cooling of the extracted vapors can be achieved. In particular, it is possible to control the temperature of the cooling water in the different regions 66 _(i) separately. In this case, it may be provided to keep the cooling water in the sub-region 66 ₂, which is closest to the vapor outlet 42, in a lower temperature range than the cooling water in the other sub-regions 66 _(i), i≠2, in particular in the sub-region 66 ₁, which is closest to the vapor inlet 41.

As illustrated in FIG. 10 by way of example, a meandering structure may be provided in the container of the device 40 to specify a meandering flow path of the vapors through the container.

The meander structure is formed in particular by flow-guiding means that are inserted into the container, in particular in the form of flow-guiding walls 70. A flow-guiding wall 70 can serve to increase the length of the flow path of the extracted vapors in the container.

As illustrated in FIG. 10 by way of example, the flow-guiding walls 70 can be arranged on the lid 44 of the container. In particular, they can be formed integrally with the lid 44 of the container or be connected thereto. This is in particular possible for a variant in which the cooling plate 56 is omitted. In a variant with cooling plate 56, the flow-guiding wall 70 is also formed in particular below the cooling plate 56, i.e. in the region between the cooling plate 56 and the bottom tray 43.

The flow-guiding wall 70 preferably does not extend to the bottom region 66 of the bottom tray 43. In particular, it is spaced apart from the bottom region 66 of the bottom tray 43. The distance of the flow-guiding wall 70 from the bottom region 66 of the bottom tray 43 is preferably less than a filling level of the bottom tray 43 with cooling liquid intended for the operation of the device 40. The flow-guiding wall 70 is in particular designed in such a manner that it is immersed in the cooling liquid, in particular in the region of a free edge, during the operation of the device 40, in particular if the device 40 is filled with cooling liquid up to a predetermined filling level.

Below the flow-guiding wall 70, the cooling liquid can preferably circulate in the bottom tray, in particular in its bottom region 66 or, in the case of a plurality of sub-regions 66 _(i), in the latter.

FIG. 11 schematically shows the flow path of a circulation flow 71 of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43.

Furthermore, FIG. 11 schematically shows the flow path of an external flow branch 72 from the circulation pump 60 back to the bottom tray 43. A flow path 73 to the pump 63 and from there to a waste water pipe 74 is also shown schematically.

As shown schematically in FIG. 11 , the bottom tray 43 is preferably designed without dead zones. With the aid of the circulation pump 60, in particular, a complete mixing of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43 can be achieved.

In the following, the operating principle of the device 40 is described with reference to the schematic FIG. 13 . During the operation of the cooking appliance 1, vapors that are produced in the receiving space 3 can escape from the receiving space 3 via the fluid outlet 20. In this case, they enter the container of the device 40 for treating vapors via the vapor inlet 41.

The vapors can be extracted from the receiving space 3 in particular by means of the ventilation device, in particular by means of the fan 15. The device 40 is arranged in particular in the negative pressure region of the ventilation device.

In the device 40, the vapors flow along a predetermined flow path from the vapor inlet 41 to the vapor outlet 42.

In doing so, the vapors flow along a flow path between the bottom tray 43 and the lid 44. In particular, they flow between the bottom tray 43 and the cooling plate 56.

During the operation of the device 40, the bottom tray 43 is filled to a predetermined filling level with cooling liquid, in particular in the form of cooling water. The cooling liquid forms a surface 76 that acts as a cooling member. The cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43 forms in particular a film or layer with cooling liquid.

In addition, cooling liquid, in particular in the form of fresh water, is added to the container via the fresh water inlet 65. Cooling water in particular can be applied to the cooling plate 56 through the fresh water inlet 65. The cooling plate 56 is cooled by this. In particular, it forms a component of a heat exchanger. The cooling liquid forms a further film or layer on the cooling plate 56. The vapors are thus guided between two layers of liquid in the device 40. Condensation of vapors occurs on the surface 76 of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43. Condensation of vapors also occurs on the underside of the cooling plate 56. Heat and moisture in particular are extracted from the vapors as they pass through the device 40. Excess cooling liquid can drip off the cooling plate 56 into the bottom tray 43.

The filling level of the bottom tray 43 with cooling liquid can be monitored by means of the filling level sensor 64. If a predefined filling level is exceeded, excess cooling liquid can be pumped out of the bottom tray 43 by means of the pump 63.

It may also be provided to add cooling liquid to or pump it out of the bottom tray 43 depending on the functional modes of the cooking appliance 1. Reference is made to PCT/EP2020/060 413 for the different functional modes of the cooking appliance 1. In particular, it may be provided to pump the cooling liquid out of the bottom tray 43 at least partially, in particular completely, for rapid extraction of vapors from the receiving space 3.

In particular, it may be provided to adjust the filling level of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43 in dependence on the functional mode of the cooking appliance 1, in particular depending on the volume flow that is generated by the fan 15. The setting of the filling level of the cooling liquid in the bottom tray 43 can be controlled by means of the filling level sensor 64.

The addition of the cooling liquid and/or its circulation in the bottom tray 43 can preferably be performed in a controlled manner. The addition of cooling liquid, in particular through the fresh water inlet 65, can in particular be performed in a clocked manner.

The device 40 for treating vapors can in particular have different operating modes, which differ with regard to the clocking of the addition of cooling liquid to the container. An exemplary overview of the different operating modes of the device 40 for treating vapors is summarized in the following table.

Overview of Operating Modes

Operating behaviour of Clocking fresh Mode: Explanation: Destination Appliance: water: Pause (*) 0 switched off — none 1 Standard mode for Maintain temper- e.g.: 1:10 to 1:3  high temperature ature at riser pipe 230° cooking at maxi- ranges (>170° C.) mum load of cooking space 2 Standard mode for Maintain temper- e.g.: 1:30 to 1:10 medium tempera- ature at riser pipe 130° gentle preparation ture ranges (e.g. 110° C. to 170° C.) 3 Cooling mode 1 if Lowering the tem- e.g.: 1:3 to 1:1 the initial tempera- perature at 230° cooking → build- ture in the riser pipe riser pipe up/overshoot with heating is too high control (too high ambient temperature) 4 Cooling mode 2 if Preventing damage e.g.: ≥1:1   the initial tempera- to the appliance 230° cooking with error ture in the riser pipe in appliance control is considerably too → overheating 300°++ high 5 Minimum con- Reduce water con- e.g.  ≤1:30   sumption mode sumption 80° steaming 6 Zero consumption Hardly any/no water e.g. Initial filling mode consumption 50° Steaming Refill every 30 min (*) exemplary values

The fresh water addition can be in the range of 100 ml/min to 10 l/min. In particular, it can be in the range of 1 l/min to 5 l/min.

The maximum water consumption with an uninterrupted addition of fresh water is in particular in the range of 50 l/h to 500 l/h, in particular in the range of 70 l/h to 200 l/h.

In the following, a method for cleaning the receiving space 3 and/or the device 40 for treating vapors is described by way of example and in key words.

For cleaning, a cleaning unit with a cleaning agent, in particular a plurality of cleaning agents, can be arranged in the receiving space 3. The cleaning unit can be designed as a cartridge. For details, reference is made to DE 10 2020 204 707.3, which is hereby fully integrated into the present application.

The cleaning method may comprise the following sequence of steps or at least a selection thereof:

-   -   1. circulating water from the container of the appliance 40 to         the cooking space 3 for approx. 10 min, heating it to approx.         50° C. and circulating it while warm. This serves to loosen         grease/contaminants.     -   2. pumping out waste water, filling the container of device 40         with fresh water.     -   3. circulating fresh water briefly via the cooking space 3.     -   4. pumping out waste water again, filling the container of         device 40 with fresh water.     -   5. circulating the water from the container of the device 40 to         the cooking space 3, thereby heating it to approx. 65° C. This         serves to release the cleaner (lye) from the cartridge.     -   6. circulating water and cleaner (lye) at 65° C. for approx. 60         minutes. In the meantime, also circulating within the container         of the device 40 internally for two to ten minutes.     -   7. pumping out the water/lye mixture, filling the container of         device 40 with fresh water.     -   8. circulating fresh water three times via cooking space 3,         pumping it out again and refilling the container of the device         40 with fresh water. This serves to rinse the lye completely out         of the appliance 1.     -   9. circulating the water from the container of the device 40 to         the cooking space 3, thereby heating it to approx. 95° C. This         serves to release the decalcifier (citric acid) from the         cartridge.     -   10. circulating water and decalcifier (citric acid) at 90° C.         for approx. 20 minutes. In the meantime, also circulating within         the container of the device 40 internally for two to ten         minutes.     -   11. pumping out the water-decalcifier mixture, filling the         container of the device 40 with fresh water.     -   12. circulating fresh water three times via cooking space 3,         pumping it out again and refill the container of device 40 with         fresh water. This serves to flush the acid completely out of the         appliance 1.

Cleaner and decalcifier can be introduced into the receiving space 3 via a cartridge. The cartridge can contain cleaner and/or decalcifier. In particular, lye, in particular caustic soda, serves as the cleaner.

Acid, in particular citric acid, serves as a decalcifier. Other acids are also possible.

For further details of the cartridge, reference is made once again to DE 10 2020 204 707.3.

Further possible uses of the device 40 for treating vapors are illustrated below with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17 .

The device 40 for treating vapors can also serve to improve an apparatus 80 for extracting cooking fumes. In this case, it is adapted in particular to the usually significantly higher extraction capacity of such an extractor fan apparatus. In particular, it can be dimensioned larger to take account of the larger maximum volume flow.

The apparatus 80 for extracting cooking fumes can be designed as an extractor fan. In particular, it may be designed as an apparatus for extracting cooking fumes downwards. Such apparatuses 80 are also referred to as trough fans or downdraft systems or, in particular if they are integrated into a hob, as hob extractors. The apparatus 80 can in particular be part of a hob system 81 comprising one or a plurality of hobs 82.

In particular, it is possible to design the hob system 81 as an assembly unit. In particular, it is possible to integrate all components of the hob system 81 into a single appliance. A corresponding design of the hob system 81 is also referred to as a compact appliance. Corresponding appliances are known, for example, from EP 2 975 327 B1, the description of which is hereby referred to.

The hob system 81 has a cooking product carrier 83, in particular in the form of a glass ceramic plate. The cooking product carrier 83 can be configured to be simply continuous. In particular, it can have an inlet opening 84 for vapors, in particular in the form of cooking fumes.

The hob system 81 has electronic components, in particular in the form of hob electronics 85. This is only shown very schematically in the Figs. The hob electronics 85 are arranged underneath the cooking product carrier 83.

In addition, the hob system 81 comprises one, two or more fans 86. The device 40 for treating vapors may be located in the flow region between the cooking fume inlet opening 84 and the fan 86. It is also possible to arrange the device 40 downstream from the fan 86.

Preferably, the device 40 is arranged underneath the hob electronics 85. This reduces the risk of damage to the hob electronics 85 by cooling water from the device 40. Preferably, all cooling water-carrying members of the device are arranged underneath, in particular completely underneath, the hob electronics 85 and/or underneath electrical or electronic components of a control device of the hob system 81.

The device 40 for treating vapors may in particular form a cooking fume suction chamber or replace such a cooking fume suction chamber.

A filter 87, in particular a grease filter, can be provided in the flow region between the cooking fume inlet opening 84 and the vapor inlet 41.

The hob system 81 may have one or a plurality of additional filters, in particular odor filters, in particular activated carbon filters, UV filters or plasma filters.

The hob system 81 may in particular have one or a plurality of filters downstream from the fan 86. In particular, it may have an odor filter, in particular in the form of an activated carbon filter, downstream from the fan 86.

As shown schematically in FIG. 17 , the device 40 for treating vapors and/or the fan 86 may be arranged in a base region 88 of a kitchen cabinet 89. They can also be arranged on a kitchen cabinet. In particular, they can be designed as separate modules which can be positioned essentially freely.

The device 40 for treating vapors can be integrated, in particular retrofitted, into existing appliances, in particular extractor fans comprising at least one cooking fume suction chamber. The device 40 for treating vapors can be integrated into a cooking fume suction chamber or replace the latter. The dimensions of the device 40 for treating vapors and in particular the arrangement and/or design of the vapor inlet 41 and the vapor outlet 42 can be adapted to the corresponding details of the cooking fume suction chamber.

With the help of the device 40 for treating vapors, the humidity of the vapors in particular can be considerably reduced. This can reliably prevent a build-up of moisture in the region of kitchen furniture, in particular in regions that are difficult to access, for example behind kitchen furniture. With the help of the device 40 for treating vapors, it can be prevented in particular that condensation of moisture from the vapors occurs on masonry walls and/or furniture.

In the following, further details and advantages of the invention are described again in keywords, independently of the specific embodiment examples.

Preferably, the inner side of the container, in particular the inner side of the bottom tray 43 and/or the lid 44 and/or the surface of the cooling plate 56 may have a dirt-repellent coating and/or an antibacterial coating.

A metering member can be provided for adding the fresh water to the container of the device 40. The metering member is in particular designed in such a manner that it enables a clocked metering of the fresh water addition.

When the cooling water drains from the cooling plate 56, a water curtain can form. The cooling water can also flow through a plurality of separate openings in the cooling plate 56 into the bottom tray 43. This can increase the surface area of the cooling water that is available to react with the vapor flow (so-called rain shower effect).

The cooling water draining from the cooling plate 56 can also serve for heat transfer and condensation of the vapor flow.

The cooling plate 56 can be provided with a rolled-in and/or embossed surface structuring. It can also have, at least in some regions, a polished surface, in particular in the region of its underside. This can improve the cooling effect and/or the condensation of the vapors on the cooling plate 56.

Cooling fins or other members for dissipating heat may be arranged at the cooling plate 56. In principle, such members can extend through the lid 44 to the outside of the container of the device 40. In particular, the cooling plate 56 can be designed in such a manner that it can be cooled from outside the container. In particular, it can be coupled in a heat-transferring manner to a heat exchanger which is arranged outside the container of the device 40.

The device 40 is designed in such a manner that it enables both continuous vapor separation and short-term evacuation of the receiving space 3. It is preferably designed in such a manner that flow losses are kept as low as possible.

Depending on the operating mode, the addition of fresh water and/or the pumping out of waste water can be switched according to a defined process scheme. This allows the heat capacity of the fresh water to be utilized particularly well. This can reduce water consumption.

The circulation flow in the bottom tray 43 and the direction of flow of the vapors that are extracted from the receiving space 3 can be opposite, at least in portions. The circulation flow can in particular form a counterflow heat exchanger.

In particular, the circulation flow may have a component in a region in the bottom tray 43 that is adjacent to the vapor outlet 42 which component is opposite to a component of the vapor flow in this region, in particular a direction given by a connecting line from the vapor inlet 41 to the vapor outlet 42.

In particular, the device 40 may have a connection to the fresh water and/or waste water network. Inside the cooking appliance 1 instead of a mains water connection, the device 40 can also have a reservoir for fresh water and a reservoir for waste water. The fresh water reservoir and the waste water reservoir are preferably removable without tools and manually from the housing 2 of the cooking appliance 1. In particular, they can be filled and emptied manually.

The filling level sensor 64 may comprise a float gauge, an electrical conductance meter, a distance meter, in particular an ultrasonic distance meter or a laser distance meter or another sensor.

The container of the device 40, in particular the bottom tray 43, in particular all components of the container as well as all components arranged in the container, have a media resistance to acid, in particular to citric acid, and/or carbonic acid (sodium carbonate dissolved in water). Preferably, they also have a media resistance to lye, in particular caustic soda.

Preferably, the free surface of the cooling water in the bottom tray 43 is as large as possible in relation to the bottom region of the bottom tray 43. The ratio of the free surface of the cooling water in the bottom tray 43 to the bottom region of the bottom tray 43 is in particular at least 0.5, in particular at least 0.7, in particular at least 0.9, in particular at least 0.95.

A large surface area of the cooling water ensures that as much reaction surface as possible is available for cooling and/or condensation of the vapor flow.

For particularly efficient cooling of the vapor flow, one or a plurality of means may be provided to increase the free surface of the cooling water in the container. These means may comprise a selection of trickling means, nebulization means and swirling means. Such means may be provided in particular for the addition of fresh water to the device 40. In this case, clogging of the corresponding means due to impurities is not to be expected.

A pressure-generating means can be provided for trickling and/or nebulizing the cooling water.

To improve the cooling of the vapor flow, multi-stage cooling can be provided, in particular with pre-cooling and post-cooling. This can further reduce water consumption.

It has proven advantageous to keep the volume of the cooling water in the bottom tray 43 as small as possible. The cooling water or other liquids in the bottom tray 43 can thus be pumped out and/or replaced very quickly.

Wave breaker members can be provided to reduce, in particular to prevent wave formation in the bottom tray 43. These wave breaker members are preferably located crosswise to the direction of flow of the vapor flow.

Retaining elements, in particular in the form of sieves, can be provided to protect the pumps 60, 63. 

1-6. (canceled)
 7. A device for treating vapors, comprising: a fluid-tight container, which can be filled with a cooling fluid at least in some regions, the fluid container comprising: a vapor inlet; a vapor outlet; and a through-flow connection which connects the vapor inlet to the vapor outlet; and at least one sensor for detecting at least one parameter of at least one of a vapor flow and a coolant in the container; wherein the sensor is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device for controlling the addition of cooling fluid to at least one of the container of the device and to a control device for controlling the extracted volume flow.
 8. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor and a conductivity sensor and a volume flow sensor serves as a sensor. 9-11. (canceled)
 12. The device for treating vapors according to claim 1, wherein at least one cooling member in the form of a solid body is arranged in the container.
 13. The device according to claim 12, wherein a cooling plate serves as cooling member.
 14. The device according to claim 12, wherein the cooling member is liquid-cooled.
 15. The device according to claim 12, comprising an inlet through which cooling fluid can be applied to the cooling member.
 16. The device according to claim 12, wherein the cooling member in each case has one or more defined outlets for draining cooling fluid into the bottom tray of the container.
 17. The device according to claim 12, wherein the at least one cooling member has a respective overflow edge. 18-20. (canceled)
 21. The device according to claim 1, comprising a control device by means of which an addition of cooling fluid to the container can be controlled.
 22. The device according to claim 1, wherein the through-flow connection has a flow cross-section increasing in the direction of flow.
 23. An apparatus for cleaning vapors comprising: a device for treating vapor according to claim 1; and a fan for applying negative pressure to the container.
 24. The apparatus for cleaning vapors according to claim 23, wherein the sensor is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to a control device for controlling the volume flow that is extracted by the fan.
 25. The apparatus for cleaning vapors according to claim 23 further comprising: at least one filter device, which is connected to the device in a fluid-conducting manner and which is arranged downstream from the vapor outlet of the device. 26-54. (canceled)
 55. A kitchen appliance comprising a device for treating vapors according to claim
 1. 56. A kitchen appliance comprising an apparatus for cleaning vapors according to claim
 23. 